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Health Benefits and Issues for Veterans

Find information about medical issues and health benefits for veterans.

Health Benefits for Veterans

If you served in the military, you might be eligible for veterans health benefits. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) runs the program.

Benefits include:

Find VA Medical Facilities

When you sign up for VA health benefits, you'll pick one VA location for your regular care. The VA may refer you to other facilities for specialty care.

Use the VA facility locator to find VA medical centers, clinics, and vet centers.

Check Your Eligibility

You may qualify for VA health benefits if:

  • You served on active duty, and

  • You did not receive a dishonorable discharge

Learn more about veterans health care eligibility to see if you qualify.

How to Apply for Medical Benefits

You can apply for VA medical benefits online, by phone, mail, or in person. The VA will make its decision within one week.

Manage Your Care with My HealtheVet

Use the My HealtheVet website to:

  • Order prescription refills

  • Schedule appointments

  • Send secure messages to your VA health care team

  • View lab and test results

  • View, download, and print your medical records

Problems with Veterans Health Care

If you have a problem with your care provider, VA medical facility, or any other aspect of your care, you can:

For more information, call 1-877-222-VETS (1-877-222-8387).

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Help for Veterans

If you or someone you know needs help now, contact the Veterans Crisis Line. Counselors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can:

  • Dial 988, then press 1

  • Send a text message to 838255

Veterans’ caregivers can find help through the VA Caregiver Support Line at 1-855-260-3274.

Mental Health Services from the VA

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) mental health services can help with:

  • Anxiety

VA Facility Locations

You can call or go to any VA medical center or vet center to get help. VA medical centers are open 24/7. Find VA locations near you.

Eligibility for Mental Health Services

Veterans enrolled in VA health care can receive mental health services.

Even if you're not enrolled in VA health care, you may be able to get help.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

The VA can help veterans with PTSD, no matter when the triggering event occurred.

Substance Abuse Treatment for Veterans

Veterans with substance use problems can get help through the VA. Treatment may include:

  • Safe detoxification with medication

  • Outpatient counseling

  • Residential care

  • Continuing care

You can seek treatment at a VA location or you can find a VA substance use disorder treatment program near you.

Support Program for Life Events

The inTransition program offers specialized coaching for military members and veterans during transitions like:

  • Changing duty stations

  • Returning from deployment

  • Preparing to leave the military

To enroll, call 1-800-424-7877. Outside the U.S., call 1-800-424-4685

Specialized Helplines for Veterans

You can also find help through these websites and toll-free numbers:

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Last Updated: November 10, 2022

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